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New sibling: Preparing your older child
How will my older child react to seeing me breast-feed the new baby?
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How can I prepare my older child for a new sibling?
How should I introduce my older child to his or her new sibling?
What can I do to help my older child adjust to having a new sibling?
What should I do if my child begins to act out?
How can I encourage my older child to be gentle with the new baby?
How will my older child react to breast-feeding?
How do I explain a medical concern to my older child?
How do multiple babies affect older siblings?
How do I prepare my older child for an adopted sibling?
How should I introduce my older child to his or her new sibling?
When the new baby arrives, have a family member or friend bring your child to the hospital or birth center for a brief visit. Allow another loved one to hold the baby for a while so that both parents can give the older child plenty of cuddles.
Consider giving your older child a gift that's from the baby, such as a T-shirt that says big brother or big sister. When you're home, take your older child to a special place — such as a favorite playground — to celebrate the new baby's arrival.
